In our ever-evolving world, environmental sustainability has become a crucial topic of discussion. One of the most pressing challenges we face is the issue of single-use plastics (SUP). These materials, while convenient, have become pervasive in daily life, and their environmental impact is significant. In this context, a recent collaborative study shines a light on the pro-environmental behaviour (PB) of Thai communities regarding the reduction of SUP, particularly in food packaging.

Published in Scientific Reports, part of the Nature journal portfolio, the study was led by Oluseye Oludoye from Teesside University in collaboration with partners from Université Catholique de Louvain (Belgium), University of Lagos (Nigeria), Chulalongkorn University (Thailand), and University of California Davis (USA). It examined how residents from rural (Sichang Island) and urban (Nonthaburi city) areas of Thailand approach SUP reduction and what motivates their behaviour.

The study found that morality significantly influenced SUP reduction in both, rural and urban areas, but with an interesting twist. Rural residents were more driven by rational decision-making, while urban residents were motivated by moral values when choosing to reduce their plastic use. These insights are invaluable for policymakers looking to develop targeted sustainability initiatives that resonate with the specific motivations of different communities.

As we continue to face environmental challenges, knowing what motivates people to reduce plastic use can help create better solutions and encourage more sustainable habits in our everyday lives.

You can read more about this study here.